How do we handle copays or discounts for clergy, military, etc.?

Answer

Any discount given should always be reflected in the fee submitted on the claim form. For example, the doctor’s pastor receives a 10% courtesy discount. The full practice fee is $100, but $90 should be reported on the claim form. The patient is responsible for the payment of all copayments and deductibles related to the $90 charge. The practice cannot discount or write off any required copay or deductible, as this billing practice is “copay forgiveness” and is not allowed in all states, plus virtually all PPO contracts prohibit copay forgiveness.